Maternity, paternity and time off as a freelancer

Self-employed parents may be able to claim Maternity Allowance. Plan your finances and tell regular clients in good time.

Maternity Allowance

Self-employed mothers who have paid Class 2 National Insurance contributions may be entitled to Maternity Allowance for up to 39 weeks. Check the current rules on GOV.UK.

CPD while on leave

Your CPD requirement is reduced if you're away from work for 3 months or more. Email the professional standards team.

Good to know

• Members can book a free 30-minute call with one of our partner accountants each year.
• Review your rates and terms once a year, for example each January.
• The members' forum has an active business board where colleagues share experiences of agencies and clients.

Downloads

• Business expenses checklist (PDF, 95 KB)
• Late payment letters (Word, 37 KB)

Page last reviewed 4 April 2026